ETL vs NSF: How to Choose a Commercial Ice Maker Certification? The Ultimate Guide to B2B Procurement

If you’re buying a commercial ice maker, you may have come across these two labels on the specs sheet: ETL and NSF.

The question is-what are the differences between them? Which is more important? Or are both of them important?

Don’t worry, we’ll explain step by step.

What is ETL?

ETL is one of the most common electrical safety certifications in North America, the equivalent of UL.

ETL certification is an assurance that the equipment has met rigorous standards in electrical structure, safety protection, and leakage current testing.

Simply put: “No leakage, no fire, no injury.”

It’s the basic ticket to enter the US and Canadian markets.

No ETL? Even with excellent machinery, you are likely to be stuck at the import or factory audit stages.

What is NSF?

NSF is the certification that guarantees food contact safety and hygiene.

In an ice maker, it deals with: Is the water flow inside the machine clean? Is the inner tank and ice container easy to clean? Have the materials passed the food-grade testing?

As he put it, “It’s not just about making ice, it’s about food safety.”

NSF certification is virtually a given if your customers include Starbucks, McDonald’s, or other food chains.

So, which would you go for?

If you are targeting the North American market → ETL is a must, and NSF is ideal as well.

If you’re targeting only the domestic or Southeast Asian market, ETL helps enhance your brand image, which is a plus but not mandatory.

If you do OEM/ODM for US clients → buyers will almost always request both certifications.

The reality is that many new brands initially only obtain ETL, thinking it’s sufficient.

But when a client asks, “Do you have NSF?”—the situation becomes awkward.

Obtaining NSF isn’t just about passing tests; it’s about showing your commitment to food safety.

This is a sign of professionalism for buyers.

Experience with Smartool

Dual certification standards are followed for our export-oriented ice makers.

The internal design keeps in mind the NSF requirements for cleaning, while electrical parts follow the ETL structural specifications throughout.

The results are quick customer inspections, smooth tests, and a very trusting clientele.

In a nutshell: ETL gives the ability to “sell,” NSF gives the possibility to “sell long.”

In the increasing competition in the Refrigeration Equipment market, product certification is not enough; customer trust needs to be earned.

If you want to penetrate the North American market, or sell to restaurants, hotels, or convenience store chains, then ideally, you should have both ETL and NSF certifications. One stands for “safety,” the other for “hygiene.” Without one or the other, there may be customer dissatisfaction.